Making beverages and food in a microwave oven

ABSTRACT

A system for preparing and cooking edible components in a microwave including different cells or compartments containing different components of the desired consumable product. Under pressure of the microwaves on the components, pressure of one or more components acts to break seals between the cells so that the components can mix and provide a desirable end product, which can be a liquid or solid form. The disposable system can make hot beverages such as espresso and cappuccino in a microwave oven. One of the ingredients can be a dairy product such as milk and the other can be water. One or more of the compartments may be made of a material to contract or expand under heat. This aids in creating or decreasing pressure on the components being processed for cooking. The system contains a substantially non-shrinkable and selectively at least partly opaque member about at least the one component. Expandable components such as a plastic material are located between the non-shrinkable member and the shrinkable member and expansion of the components under microwaves acts to aid the forcing of liquid through the divider.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application relates to U.S. Pat. No. 6,229,128 “Making Beverages ina Microwave Oven” and issued on May 8, 2001; U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 60/082,053, filed Apr. 16, 1998, entitled “MicrowavableDevice for Preparing Hot Beverages”; U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationNo. 60/103,674, filed Oct. 9, 1998, entitled “Food and Beverage MakingSystem”; U.S. Utility patent application Ser. No. 09/241,898, filed Feb.1, 1999, entitled “Food and Beverage Making System”; U.S. Utility patentapplication Ser. No. 09/338,377, filed Jun. 23, 1999, entitled “MakingBeverages in a Microwave Oven”; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.60/146,749, filed Aug. 2, 1999, entitled “Making Beverages in aMicrowave Oven”, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/366,865,filed Mar. 21, 2002, entitled “Making Beverages and Food in a MicrowaveOven. The contents of this patent and these applications areincorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to a device for use in a microwave oven forpreparing hot beverages. In particularly, the invention is concernedwith a device for preparing beverages such as cappuccino, café conlatte, espresso, tea and other beverages. Some of these beverages may ormay not include milk or dairy containing products. In other forms, thedevice can be used for injecting the essences of flavors into liquids inthe form of flavored yogurts, flavored fruit juices, hot chocolate andsimilar products.

In the modern busy world it is desirable to provide devices that can besold to a consumer for the quick preparation of hot beverages. Devicesare known for making pots of coffee through a conventional electricelement, but these are either slow or cumbersome for use by theconsumer. Other devices are known for making espresso on a stovetop, andonce again these are not of a consumer-friendly nature, such that theycan be easily disposed of after use.

The device of the present invention can be used for providing hot drinksand/or drinks of different temperatures after their preparation in amicrowave oven.

This invention also relates to a device system and method for use in andwith a microwave oven for preparing and cooking digestible products suchas beverages and foods. In particular, the invention is also concernedwith a device for preparing beverages such as different coffee, coffeecombinations, tea and tea combinations. Two or more components for thefood or beverage can be combined to provide a desirable food orbeverage. In other forms, the device can be used for adding essences offlavors into liquids, which can include milk products, fruit juices orthe like. Moreover, the device can be used for brewing and fermentingpurposes and for preparing and cooking solid food products and desserts.

It is desirable to provide a device as to a method which consumers canuse for quick preparation of beverages and digestible foods which caninclude complete or other meals. A microwave oven is a useful device forfacilitating quick preparation and/or cooking of food, and the inventionuses the characteristics of a microwave oven to prepare desirable hotbeverages, drinks, foods, desserts and other nutritional products.

SUMMARY

By this invention, there is provided a disposable device, preferablymade of plastic, paper, press board, cardboard, or laminated components,and which preferably includes a cup for mixing multiple differentingredients under the action of microwaves in a conventional microwaveoven. Such a device can be used to make espresso, cappuccino or otherdairy containing products.

In a preferred form of the invention, the device includes multiplecompartments, one of which is for containing water, and another of whichis for containing a dairy product, preferably in a liquidized form. Inthe liquidized form, the dairy product could be a non-fat milk or othermilk product which is suitably processed so as not to deteriorate in theenvironment. In a different form, the product including the milkproducts could contain dry powder or granules to start, and all theliquids are added later by a consumer.

A different compartment of the device can include a cup which isoptionally fitted to form as part of the integral device when used inthe microwave oven. In alternative forms, the cup can be a separateelement which can be provided by the consumer to cooperate with the unitfor making the hot beverage in the microwave oven.

By this invention, there is also provided a device, preferablydisposable and preferably made of plastic, paper, pressboard, cardboardor laminated components, and which preferably includes a container inthe nature of a cup or other plate element for use in serving ordelivering the final product to a consumer for consumption. When theproduct prepared in the microwave oven is a beverage, one of thecompartments can include a cup from which the beverage can be drunk.When the preparation is of a solid nature, one of the compartments canbe in the form of a plate from which the consumable food product can beeaten. The materials forming the components of the device do not reactto the microwaves in a substantially non-deleterious or harmful manner.Thus, the materials are compatible for use in a microwave oven.

In another preferred form of the invention, the consumable food orbeverage includes at least two components which are separated prior tobeing subjected to microwave action. A suitable divider or filter can beused to keep these components separate prior to microwave action. Theeffect of microwaves on one of the components acts to break the sealseparating the components and causes the components to mix to a desireddegree, and thereby provides the desired beverage or food. In one form,one of the components is a liquid in the nature of water and, in anotherform, one of the components can be a liquefied dairy product. The othercomponent can be in the form of an essence or concentrate such asgranules or powder, which may, for instance, be coffee, tea, soups,powdered milk, or other flavoring such as vegetable or fruitconcentrate. One or other of the component products in the system mayneed to be treated by suitable pasteurization or other processes toprevent premature deterioration in the environment.

In some other forms of the invention, one of the components is a solidvegetable, meat or fruit products, such as broccoli, potatoes, carrots,apples, pears or the like. The other component can be a suitable liquidin the form of water or a dairy product as a combination or aconcentrate. The system provides for the cooking and/or preparationand/or blending of the two components to provide a suitable final endproduct for edible consumption.

In other forms of the invention, one of the components may be a yeast orfungus, and the combination effect under the process of microwaves canbe used for producing alcoholic products in the nature of beer and/orsuitable cheeses such as mozzarella cheese.

The invention includes several compartments making the device. Thecompartments are separated after subjection to microwaves, and one ofthe components being useful as a delivery means to the consumer. Priorto subjection to microwaves, the compartments can be suitably sealedwith the ingredient components separated. The device can be supplied tothe consumer in this manner.

In other forms of the invention, different separable elements can formone or more of the compartments. The elements can snap together or bescrew connected.

In yet other forms of the invention, one or more spouts can be providedto a compartment for ejecting fluid processed under microwave power intoa separate container. The spouts may be movable, preferably pivotally,between different operative and inoperative positions.

In another form of the invention there is provided one or more casingsor covers for the compartment or compartments which contain componentswhich are subject to treatment and processing under microwaves.Additionally, one or more of the compartments may be of different sizesto the other and the amount of material for treatment by the microwavesmay differ in one compartment relative to another. Also expandableplastic-like components can be incorporated in one or more compartments,the components being expandable under the action of microwaves. Thiscauses one compartment to expand while simultaneously it causes anothercompartment to shrink or decrease in size under the pressure exerted bythe compartment of increased size.

The invention is further described with reference to the accompanyingdrawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a first device in accordance withthe invention. The device has at least two compartments, one for waterand one for dairy products. It is ideally suited for making cappuccinoor café con latte.

FIG. 2A is a cross-sectional side view of a cup.

FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional side view of the bottom reservoir of thedevice.

FIG. 2C is a cross-sectional side view of the sealing plate.

FIG. 2D is a cross-sectional side view of a first filter.

FIG. 2E is a cross-sectional side view of a coffee bag.

FIG. 2F is a cross-sectional side view of a filter for the coffee bag.

FIG. 2G is a cross-sectional side view of a filter over the milkcontainer portion of the reservoir.

FIG. 2H is a top view of the combinations of FIGS. 2A-2G showing theends of different components.

FIG. 2I is a cross-sectional view along line 21 of FIG. 2B.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional side view of a second device for use withonly a single compartment to contain water, and ideal for makingespresso.

FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional side view of the reservoir for containingwater.

FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional side view of a cup which also forms the topof the device.

FIG. 4C is a cross-sectional side view of the plate sealing the bottomreservoir.

FIG. 4D is a cross-sectional side view of a filter on one side of thecoffee container.

FIG. 4E is a cross-sectional side view of the coffee container.

FIG. 4F is a cross-sectional side view of a filter on the other side ofthe coffee container.

FIG. 4G is a cross-sectional side view of a lid which could be locatedeither over the cup of FIG. 4B or the plate of FIG. 4C.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional side view of a device for making productswhere two ingredients need to be blended together, and wherein the topportion forms a cup.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a device for making a singleingredient component wherein the top section forms a cup.

FIG. 7 is a graphical representation showing the changes of pressurewithin a sealed reservoir relative to water temperature and total flowin the reservoir as used in the device for use in the microwave oven.

FIGS. 8A and 8B are, respectively, cross-sectional end views ofdifferent components and cross-sectional side views of differentcomponents of a first device in accordance with the invention. Thedevice has at least two or more compartments, one for water and theother for granular products. It is ideally suited for making espresso ina container component of the device.

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the device of FIGS. 8A and 8B intheir assembled state.

FIGS. 10A and 10B are, respectively, cross-sectional end views ofdifferent components and cross-sectional side views of differentcomponents of a second device in accordance with the invention. Thedevice has at least two components, one for water and one for dairyproducts. Additionally, there is a compartment for granular materialssuch as coffee. It is ideally suited for making cappuccino or café conlatte.

FIG. 11 is cross-sectional view of the device of FIGS. 10A and 10B intheir assembled state.

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional side view of a different form of the devicewithout a second component which can be in the nature of a cup. Thedevice includes two separated zones for containing a liquid and granularparticles, which may be also be dissolvable.

FIG. 13 is a sectional side view of a different device which has twoseparate compartments for containing two liquids in two compartments andfor containing different granular materials which can be blendedtogether. The device can be suitable for brewing alcoholic products whenthe appropriate components are put in different compartments. A separatecup can be used for receiving the contents of the device illustrated inFIG. 13.

FIG. 14 is an exploded view of the device illustrated in FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 is a side view of a device for preparing solid-type foodcomponents of which there are two or more cells or zones for preparingdifferent products. The device shown in FIG. 15 illustrates threedifferent kinds of products which can be produced.

FIG. 16 is a side view of a different configuration for preparing avegetable product in the nature of broccoli. An escape valve isillustrated in the outside skin of one of the cells.

FIG. 17 is a sectional side view of another device for making differentcomponents and wherein there are multiple cells dividing the componentsprior to subjection to microwaves.

FIGS. 18A AND 18B are variations of FIGS. 10A and 10B.

FIG. 19 is a variation of FIG. 11.

FIGS. 20, 20A and 20B show a configuration where there are differentelements making up the container components. The elements being relativeseparable and being connected with a threaded screw arrangement.

FIG. 21 is an arrangement showing different components where one of thecontainers has a removable lid. The lid being screw threaded.

FIG. 22 is an arrangement where there is a container and a spout, andwherein one container is located within a second container.

FIGS. 22A and 22B are exploded views of the arrangement with a spout.

FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of a different arrangement with aspout and the shape of the container configuration is different.

FIG. 23A is an exploded view of the arrangement of FIG. 23.

FIG. 23B is an arrangement where there are two spouts to the container.

FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of a different form of system forproducing a liquid beverage in a microwave oven.

FIG. 24A is an exploded view of the components comprising the unit ofFIG. 24.

FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view of a different form of container forproducing a beverage in a microwave oven.

FIG. 25A is a cross-sectional view of different components in anexploded environment for use in the configuration of FIG. 25.

FIG. 25B is a top view of the sum of the components applicable to theconfiguration of FIG. 25.

FIGS. 26A and B are cross-sectional side views of a different form ofdevice without a second component which can be in the nature of a cup.The device includes two separate zones for containing a liquid andgranular particles which may also be dissolvable. A non-shrinkable coveror casing is contained over one of the zones.

FIG. 27 is a sectional side view of a different device which has twoseparate compartments for containing two different components in the twocompartments and for containing different liquid, granular or powdermaterials to be blended together. There is a hard shell or casingcovering in each of those compartments. One compartment is of adifferent size relative to the other compartment and there is adifferent amount of liquid, granular, or powder material which can becontained in one compartment relative to the other compartment.

FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view of a different device which has twoseparate components for containing two liquids in two compartments andwherein collapsible containers are contained within hardened cases orshells and wherein the filtering component has a moveable wing acting asa locking agent.

FIGS. 29A and 29B are respectively cross-sectional end views ofdifferent components and cross-sectional side views of differentcomponents of a device in accordance with the invention. The onecompartment for containing fluid is covered by a relatively hard casingand within that compartment there is the flexible and collapsiblecomponent. The filter membrane between the two components is alsorelatively small and does not extend across the cross-section.

FIG. 30 is a side view of a device for preparing a solid food componentin which at least one of the cells or zones includes an additionalcasing which can be opaque and or transparent and which is not subjectto reaction such as collapse due to the microwave action on the contentsof the cells or zones.

FIG. 31 is a side view of a different configuration for preparing avegetable product a relatively rigid and selectively opaque casingcovers the collapsible inner skin of one of the cells.

FIG. 32 is a sectional side view of another device for making differentcomponents wherein the multiple cells are covered by one or more hardand selectively opaque elements which are not subject to contraction inthe manner that the internal cells and the components therein aresubject.

FIG. 33 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment wherein there is acollapsible inner container, cells which are expandable under microwaveaction and a covering hard material.

FIG. 34 is a cross-sectional view with parts separated of the embodimentof FIG. 33 showing the cells prior to expansion and the internalcontainer prior to shrinkage or size reduction.

FIG. 35 is a cross-sectional view of the configuration showing the cellsexpanded and the internal container contracted, shrunk or reduced insize when fluid has passed through the filtering medium.

FIG. 36 is a cross-sectional view of a configuration for preparing foodcomponents wherein there are cells expandable under microwave actionthereby forcing one compartment to reduce in size.

FIG. 37 is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 36 showingthe cells expanded and a compartment contracted thereby to cause theforcing of fluid from the contracted compartment into the othercompartment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In FIG. 1 there is shown a device for use in a microwave oven includinga bottom reservoir 10 and a screw-on cup 12. The reservoir 10 and thecup 12 are for end-to-end engagement through a threaded interface 14which is the top most portion of the bottom reservoir 10, and aninternal female threaded section 16 which is at the free end of the cup.The reservoir portion 10 includes two reservoir sections, namely, afirst reservoir 18 for holding water, and a second circumferentialreservoir 20 for holding a milk product.

The second reservoir 20 is connected by means of a rod member 22 whichis anchored to a cruciform shape 24 at the base of the first reservoir18. The top of the reservoir 18 is sealed by a series of componentswhich are screw connected to a threaded lip 26. The lip 26 includesinternal threads and external threads.

The component closing the lip on the reservoir 18 includes a plate 28with an outlet spout 30, which is in the invention of FIG. 1 centrallylocated. Below the plate 28 there is a circumferential filter element32, which fits within the outlet area of plate 28. Below the filterelement there is a coffee bag or basket 34.

Below the coffee bag or basket 34 is a second filter element 36. Belowthe second filter element 36 there is a further filter element 38 whichis sufficiently large to engage circumferentially around the outside ofthe first reservoir 18, and the fluid filters from the second reservoir20 before it enters the cup portion 12.

The components 28, 32, 34 and 36 are packed together. The plate 28 isscrew threaded with internal threads 40 onto the threaded portions 26 atthe top-most portion of the second reservoir 20. The circumferentialouter filter 38 is likewise placed in position over the space betweenthe second reservoir 20 and the first reservoir 18 as defined by the lip14 of the first reservoir and the periphery 26 of the second reservoir.

When in use, the first reservoir 18 is filled with water, and the secondreservoir 20 is filled with a dairy containing product such asliquidized milk. When sold to the consumer, these containers can bepre-filled with water and/or dairy product as indicated. Alternatively,the consumer can fill the compartments themselves. Ideally, the deviceis made of multiple plastic, paper, press board, cardboard or laminatedcomponents and is fully disposable. In this fashion, compartments 18 and20 can be pre-filled with liquid before sold to the consumer.

When the device is placed in a microwave oven, the water in the firstreservoir 18 will boil up and be passed under pressure through thecoffee in the basket 34. After passing through the various filters, thewater will be ejected from the spout 30 into the cup 12. Likewise, themilk containing product in reservoir 20 will be ejected through thescreen 38 and be ejected into the cup 12. In this manner, the cappuccinoor café con latte product is ejected into the cup 12 to form an instantcappuccino or café con latte product. For creating cappuccino theapertures 38 are sufficiently small so that the milk will spray into thecup to create a foam, as required for cappuccino.

The cup 12 can then be unscrewed at 14 from the reservoir base, and theconsumer can then have a pre-prepared hot coffee beverage in a matter ofseconds.

In other forms of the invention, this configuration can be used forproviding, for instance, hot chocolate. In the basket 34 there can behot chocolate essence, and milk and water can be provided in reservoirs18 and 20 as required.

In other forms, different essences or products can be provided in basket34 combining fluids in reservoirs 18 and 20 to provide a differentdesirable product.

From a construction perspective, the reservoir 18 is formed in a mannerto be fixed to the upstanding legs 42, which extend from the case 44 ofthe reservoir 20.

In some other forms of the invention, the cup 12 can be an optionalitem. In other words, a consumer can provide his own cup and the basereservoir 20 can be provided. When used in the microwave oven, the basereservoir 20 could be placed in relationship with the cup 12. Ideally,it would be placed in a manner that the cup 12 is upside down asindicated in FIG. 1. Where the user's own cup is used, the basereservoir 20 may be reversed from that shown in FIG. 1, and can beplaced to point downwardly onto the consumer's cup. This may benecessary because the consumer's cup is not going to fit in tightly withthe product as indicated in the embodiments of FIGS. 1 and 2. Vent holes46 are provided at the top perimeter portion of the reservoir 20 forventing air are required. The vent holes are optional.

FIG. 3 shows a system for producing a hot beverage containing a singleingredient. There is a lower reservoir 50 for containing water. Thisreservoir includes a male threaded section 52 at its topmost portion.This male threaded section 52 engages a closure circumferential plate 54which includes internal female threads 56. The plate 54 includes a plate62 and an exit spout 58 centrally located.

There is also a male threaded projection 60 which extends from the plate62 of the element 54. A cup 64 engages the threaded portion 60, andthere is a female threaded section 68 for engaging the threads 60.

Below the sealing plate 62 is a filter portion or plate 66, and belowthat is a pouch or the like for containing coffee or some otherbeverage, such as chocolate, tea or similar essence. A filter plate 70is located below the pouch 68. When used, the reservoir 50 containswater and the coffee pouch 68 is in place.

The device is placed in a microwave oven and, as the water boils, itforces itself through the filters, the coffee pouch and out the exitspout 58 into the cup portion 64. Thereafter, the cup portion 64 can beunthreaded from the plate 54 by disengaging threads 60 and 66. The cup64 can then be used to drink the beverage. The entire device isdisposable.

By having this arrangement, espresso can be made in a microwave oven ina matter of second rather than minutes. In other words, the power of themicrowave boils the water more quickly forcing the water through thecoffee pouch 68 to thereby form the espresso.

The components making the device are of a plastic which is sufficientlystrong to withstand the pressures of the boiling water forcing itselfthrough the pouch. Since the unit is disposable and is not intended forreuse, the nature of the plastic can be of a kind whereby it does notneed to withstand excessive pressures. In certain circumstances it maybe necessary to permit the venting of air from one or other of thecontainers 50 or 64 and, for this purpose, vents 72 are optionallyprovided and are shown in the bottom reservoir 50. These are, in asense, radially disposed towards the top end of the reservoir 50.

In FIG. 4G there is also shown a lid element 74 which has internalthreads 76. These threads can engage the threaded portion 60 in thesealing plate 62 as may be required. Alternatively, it can engage thethreads 58 on the top portion of the cup. This engagement with thethreads 58 may just be an interengaging bead formation 78 at the top ofthe cup which interengages in the slot portion 80 in the lid.

As illustrated in FIG. 5, there is shown an arrangement where there isbottom reservoir 100 for containing a dairy product 102. There is aninternal reservoir 104 for containing a water 106. The topmost portionof the reservoir 100 includes a male threaded portion 108 which engageswith the female threads 110 of a base of a cup portion 112. By engagingthese threaded sections, there is also trapped between the two, thesealing plate 114, which threadingly engages with an upstanding stud116, which is formed from the top plate 118 across the reservoir 100.The sealing plate 114 includes a face plate 120 with small apertures topermit the egress of fluid into the cavity 122. Below the plate 120there is a pouch 124 for containing coffee or the like, and below thepouch 124 there is a sealing plate 126. The cup 112 includes a base 128and two upstanding pipes 130 which are located along the edge perimeterof the cup 112. The pipes 130 include an internal bore 132 which bore ofeach pipe is connected with the cavity 122. Inside the pipes 130 is thechamber 134 for containing the prepared beverage. The top 136 of the cup112 includes a lid 138 which has an internal thread 140 for engagingwith the element 142 on top of the cup 112. The cup 112 also includes ajagged top face 144. The purpose of the jagged top face 144 is that whenfluid under pressure exits from the outlets 146 of the pipes 130, thefluids under pressure engages the faces 148 and deflects fluiddownwardly into the reservoir 134 of the cup. The base 150 of the cupincludes reinforcing beads 152, which may be required for thisconstruction.

The system of this invention is of the nature that when the device isput in the microwave oven, the water and dairy product boil and moveupwardly from the reservoirs 106 and 102 respectively into the cup 112.Water from the reservoir 106 passes through the filters 126 and 120 andalso the essence bag in between and thereby forces the fluid into thecavity 122. Dairy product or milk in the cavity 102 passes through theplate 118 which has appropriate holes, and into the cavity 122. As thepressure increases in cavity 122, the fluid rises up the pipes 130through the ports 132. The heated fluid then exits from outlets 146 intothe cavity 134 of the cup.

As illustrated in FIG. 6, the configuration is similar to that in FIG.5. There is however, only a single cavity or container 200 which formsthe bottom or base reservoir for containing water 202. There is a malethreaded top 204 which engages the female threaded base 206 of the cup208. Above the top threaded portion 204, there is a coffee pouch 210 anda filter element 212.

The cup 208 includes a single pipe 214 with a bore 216 having an outlet218 towards the top of the cup 208.

On top of the cup 208 there is a lid 220 which threadingly engages withthe top of the cup 208 as indicated. The lid 220 includes an undulatedtop for the similar purposes as described with regard to FIG. 5. Thereis also a cavity 222 below the base 224 of the cup 208 and above thefilter plate 212. When the device is placed in a microwave oven and thewater boils in 202, it is forced through the appropriate coffee bag andfilters into the cavity 222. From there, the water goes up the pipe 214through the bore 216 and into the cup 208. The cup 208 can then beseparated from the base portion and used to drink the prepared beverage.The lid 220 can be used optionally as required.

FIG. 7 is a schematic representation of the relationship of the pressurewithin the chamber, the temperature of the water retained therein andthe total flow of the water from the chamber. When water is filledwithin the reservoir, the placement of the lid on top creates an initialpressurization of the chamber. This initial pressurization serves toprime the transfer tube causing the water to flow through the inlet leg.The water expelled from the outlet, upon this initial pressurization, isdischarged into the coffee basket, wetting the grounds. It iscontemplated that the pressure within the chamber will be slightlygreater than ambient pressure due to the balancing of the water level.

The initial pressure P0 within the chamber is defined on the graph ofFIG. 7. The starting time T0 for the brewing cycle is the initiation ofthe microwave energy from the microwave oven. The microwave energyimmediately begins to increase the water temperature within the chamber.This increase in temperature of the water over the brewing cycle issubstantially linear. The increase in temperature causes an increase inthe pressure within the chamber. Because of the priming, the pumpingsystem is initiated substantially immediately upon application of themicrowave energy.

The flow of water caused by the increase in pressure during this initialtime period T is substantially constant. At a certain point in timethere is a substantial increase in the flow rate of the water from thereservoir. This increased flow causes a drop in pressure within thechamber due to the substantial reduction in water volume therein,without a corresponding increase in pressure due to a rise in watertemperature. The pressure is contemplated to become substantiallynegative, or below ambient, and below the initial pressure P0. Thisnegative pressure causes a restriction on the flow of the hydraulic headadvantage. This restricted flow is seen at the period between time T2and T3.

It is contemplated that the brewing cycle will further include a secondpressure increase with the hydraulic head advantage again takingprecedent over the pumping system. A sudden increase in flow occurs atabout time T3. During the period between T3 and T4 there is a secondsubstantial reduction in the pressure within the chamber. However, thehigher water temperature likely restores the vapor pressure at a fasterrate, causing a faster flow between the period T4 through Tc than duringthe period T2 through T3. Upon completion of the brewing cycle,substantially all of the water flows through the transfer tube into thecoffee basket.

FIG. 7 is representative of the observed operation of an apparatus madein accordance with the present invention. The number of pressure cyclesduring any brew may vary according to the water temperature, thequantity of water within the chamber, the diameter of the tube, thewattage of the microwave oven and other factors. The slope andpositioning of the curves illustrated are not limiting. Variations instructure of the reservoir and transfer tube will also change theresults obtained from the application of microwave energy.

As indicated, the present invention can be used for different beveragesincluding milk containing beverages such as milkshakes. The beveragescan be prepared hot and then later drunk cooled. The substances aredisposable and for use in a microwave oven. They can be prepared andsold with or without the ingredients, which can be the essence such asthe coffee in a bag, the water and/or the milk. Ideally, in apre-prepared package form it can have all the products in the device.Therefore, the consumer needs only to place the unit in the microwaveoven for a few seconds to heat the water and then have a beverage whichwould otherwise take a much longer time to prepare. The disposablenature of the components provides for a useful device.

Other forms of the invention exist, each differing from the other inmatters of detail only. For instance, in other configurations of thedevice, more than one outlet can be provided for the water, and thewater can be located in a different position relative to the basecontainer and the cup. In other words, it may not be centrally locatedbut rather on the side. Likewise, the milk could be forced to exit fromthe base container into the cup from a different location and in one ormore locations as necessary and desirable to achieve the right mix ofcomponents. By being able to spray fluid into the cup, there is createda foam in the cup. This can be useful for many different kinds ofbeverages.

Although it is the intent that the unit be of a disposable nature andfor single use only. It may be possible to develop the unit for multipleuse in microwave oven. In such a form, different bags of essences orcomponents which water or flavoring must be forced can be providedseparately. Also, in other cases, the drinking cup can be optional. Assuch, the consumer may be able to use their own drinking cups incombination with the base reservoir. Although the configuration is shownwhereby water is forced upwardly through the device, there could beconfigurations wherein use of the water is located in the top reservoirand drips into the cup below. In different situations, it may benecessary to provide a temporary seal between the water and dairycontaining fluid and the coffee so that premature mixing inadvertentlyor otherwise does not take place before the unit is placed in themicrowave oven. This seal may be manually removable or may break underthe pressure of steam generating in the one reservoir and forcing itselfinto the second reservoir through a coffee bag or the like.

Different outside profiles of containers and reservoirs can be used. Insome cases, an existing kind of paper cup can be used in combinationwith the pressure container. Also, different kinds of connections can beused for the components: for instance, instead of the threadedinterengagement, this can a bayonet fitting.

FIGS. 8A and 8B and 9 show a system for producing a hot beveragecontaining a single ingredient. There is an upper reservoir 1020 forcontaining water. This reservoir includes a male threaded section 1022at its lowermost portion. This male threaded section is for engaging afemale threaded section 1024 on an intermediate element 1026 which isprovided for containing one of the components. The intermediate section1026 can have a female coupling element 1028 for receiving a beadedsection or threaded interface 1030 of a cup portion 1032 which isconventionally the lowermost portion of the device. The interface 1030is a lip which can be snap connected with its mating component ordisconnected from its mating component under pressure. It can beconnected during manufacture under pressure snapped on. When used, it issnapped off. Alternatively, it can be screwed or twisted on or off.

The component 1020 only contains liquid or water 1034, and theintermediate section 1026 contains a granular material 1036 which may bein a container or bag 1038. Above the intermediate section 1026, thereis contained a filter or sealing element 1040 which acts to effectivelyseal the water 1034 from engagement with the granular material 1036prematurely.

Intermediate section 1026 includes a series of apertures 1042 in afilter element zone 1044 which is circumferentially centrally disposedin the intermediate section 1026. Around the perimeter of the filterelement 1044, there are one or more valves 1046 which can becircumferentially arranged around the element 1044, and which connect asescape valves as necessary. One or more additional escape valves 1048can be provided in the wall 1050 of the top of the container 1020.

The extra escape valve 1048 may be necessary if the water 1034 in thecontainer 1020 is subject to overboiling. The escape valve 1048 or oneor more of the valves 1046 can be used to prevent excess pressure frombuilding up, and water or steam can thereby be permitted to escape fromthe container 1020 as necessary.

Prior to subjection to microwaves, the topmost portion 1020 can be screwconnected with the intermediate section 1026 and cup or lowermostportion 1032 can be connected with the intermediate section 1026.Alternatively, the connection of the top 1020 can be hot sealed orbonded to the intermediate portion 1026. The filter 1040 is in placewith the granules 1036 in the bag in the intermediate section 1026. Thewater 1034 is separated from the bag 1038 by the separation element1040. When subjected to microwaves, the boiling effect on the liquid1034 causes an expansion of the fluid which acts to break the seal 1040and cause water to penetrate and pass through the granules 1036 underpressure. The water containing the essence of the granules, which can bein the nature of coffee, then pass through the holes 1042 in the filterelement 1044 into the cup 1032.

After a sufficient time, when all or a sufficient amount of the waterhas passed through the granules, the microwave action is stopped and thedevice is removed from the microwave oven. The cup 1032 can then beseparated and a suitable hot beverage is contained in the cup 1032. Theuppermost portions 1020 can then be discarded. The cup 1032 can also bediscarded.

In some cases, the cup 1032 can be reusable and the uppermost portion1020 and intermediate section 1026 of a separate new device can be usedwith a reusable cup 1032.

As illustrated in FIG. 9, the device of FIGS. 8A and 8B are shown in theposition wherein the bottom portion 1032 is located above the portion1020. In certain situations, this reverse configuration may be moresuitable, either prior to sale or use of the device or, in fact, as thepreferred configuration in which the device is placed in the microwaveoven. In other words, the device can be used in a microwave oven ineither of the orientations of FIGS. 8A and 8B or FIG. 9. Whereas inFIGS. 8A and 8B the force of the liquid would be downward into the cup1032. In FIG. 9 the force of the liquid in container 1020 would beupward into the cup 1032. Prior to use or separation of the cup 1032,the device would be turned upside down since it would be the cup 1032,which contains the heated beverage for use or consumption.

In FIGS. 10A and 10B there is shown a device for use in a microwave ovenincluding a top reservoir 1050 and a snap-on or screw-on cup 1052, whichis normally located on the bottom. The reservoir 1050 and cup 1052 arefor end-to-end engagement through the interface 1054 which may be in thenature of a sealing ring for engagement in a circumferentialsemi-circular slot or groove 1056 around the free end 1058 of thecontainer 1050. The reservoir portion 1050 contains at least tworeservoir sections: a first reservoir section 1060 for holding water1162 and a second reservoir section 1062 for holding a milk product1064.

The first reservoir section 1060 is connected by means of a rod member1066, which is anchored to a cruciform shape 1068 at the base of thereservoir 1060 to wall portions 1070, which are in the form ofinternal-type walls to the reservoir 1060.

The reservoir 1060 includes an internal female threaded section 1072 forengagement with male thread 1074 of an intermediate section 1076. Theintermediate section 1076 includes a cup-type portion 1078 for receivinga bag 1081 of granulated material such as coffee 1083. In the base ofthe cup portion 1078 there is a filter zone 1080, and there is anadditional peripheral zone 1082 on circumferential flange 1084 whichextends from the cup portion 1076. Filter zones 1091 and 1083 are aperforated wall, floor, mesh or selectively a double layer mesh. Thedouble layer mesh can assist in making foam milk, for instance, forcappuccino. The double mesh can be two different gaskets, one on top ofeach other with a space between them. Alternatively, it can a componentto embrace filter 1092 over the top and/or bottom of 1082.

Built into the threaded or slotted portion 1086 at the free end of thereservoir portion 1050 are one or more elliptically-shaped valveelements 1088 which connect as an escape for excess fluid when thereservoir 1050 with its fluid is put under microwave action, andpressure builds up due to the energy of microwaves on the fluid in oneor more of the reservoir components 1060 or 1062.

The cup 1052, as indicated, engages the groove 1058 so that an integralunit is provided for use in a microwave oven. When it is subjected tomicrowaves, pressure builds up in the first component 1060 and in thecomponents 1062. Each of the respective fluids expands or boils orsteams at its appropriate level when the pressures are appropriate. Thefluid 1162 in compartment 1060 passes through the granulated material1083 in the sack 1080 and enters the cup 1052. The dairy product 1064passes separately through the filter 1082 around the cup portion 1078and suitably froths as it enters the cup portion 1052. In this manner, abeverage formed by water passing through the granules 1082 and enteringthe cup 1052 can mix and blend with frothed milk or dairy product in thecup 1052, and suitable co-mixture is provided.

Prior to the mixing action in the microwave oven, filter element 1090 atthe top of component 1060 retain the liquid 1162 separated from thegranules 1085 thereby preventing premature mixing. Between the filter1080 and 1082 there is a relatively solid circumferential ring 1092,which is provided so that the filter area 1080 and filter area 1082 areof the relatively required areas to provide effective mixing. The area1092 may be increased or decreased relative to the size of the filterareas 1080 or 1082 according to the beverage being made and therequisite degree of mixing which is required.

The compartment 1060 and 1062 can be varied in size so that the relativeamounts of fluid 1162 and 1064 can be changed according to the beverageto be made in the system. In other cases, the device, prior to use inthe microwave oven, may be turned in an opposite direction such that thecup 1052 is above the double container 1050. In other variations of theinvention, more than two compartments 1060 and 1062 can be provided inthe portion 1050. Thus, there could be three or four compartmentswhereby different or multiple components can be mixed to make theultimate beverage. Each compartment can be sized according to the amountof each component required to be mixed into the ultimate beverage in thecup 1052.

In FIG. 12 there is illustrated a side view of a device having a singlecompartment 1100 in which there is contained water or light liquidcomponent. This may be a dairy product. The second compartment 1102 isformed in adjacency with the first compartment 1100. There is a filteror separation medium 1104 which keeps the component 1102 separated froma granular or powdered component or essence 1106 contained in a sack orbag 1108 in the second compartment 1102. The second compartment 1102 canbe formed in a laminated material which can be suitably bonded to thecircumferential lip 1110 around the outside wall 1112 of the firstcompartment 1100. The circumferential lip 1110 is directed substantiallyat right angles to the wall 1112. The filter element 1104 providessuitable pores or apertures 1114 in the central zone of the cup portion1100, and the peripheral ring or zone 1116 is relatively solid. Theperipheral ring 1118 of the second component 1202 is bonded togetherwith the peripheral ring 1116 and 1110 to provide a relatively sealedinterface which is liquid impervious. The base of the second component1102 also includes pores or apertures 1120 in a filter zone 1122 whichis formed adjacent to as part of the second component 102. Thislaminated structure can be self-contained and include the twocompartments for having the two components to be mixed under the actionof a microwave. A separate cup or container can be provided forreceiving the contents of the fluid emanating through the apertures 1120after the action of the microwave.

In FIG. 13 there is shown a variation of the embodiment of FIG. 12. Thisvariation is one where there are two liquid-containing compartments 1200and 1202, each which contain respective liquid 1204 and 1206. Eachliquid can be different, and it is required, and likewise, two secondcompartments 1206 a and 1208 can be different in size and structure. Incompartment 1206 a there is a first granulated or powdered material1210. In compartment 1208 there is a second powdered or granulatedmaterial 1212. These materials can be different as necessary.

There are respectively two filter areas 1214 and 1216. The liquid 1204,suffused with the granules or essence passes through the apertures orpores 1218 of filter 1214, and the liquid 1206, suffused with thegranules or essence 1212, pass through the apertures or pores 1220 offilter 1216.

This device can also be formed as a laminated structure, and there is afilter or separation medium 1222 which separates each of the liquids1204 and 1206 from the respective granular components 1210 and 1212. Thelaminated structure can be not sealed or not pressed in itsconstruction. This can be a self-contained body component device, namelytwo compartments for two different kinds of liquids, two compartmentsfor each of two different kinds of granulated materials, and respectiveseparation areas between the respective liquids and dry granulatedmaterial, and thereafter respective dispensing or filtering elements.

In different formulations, some of the liquid 1206 could be urgedthrough the components 1210, and some of the liquid 1204 could be urgedthrough the compartment 1208 as may be necessary. In other forms of theinvention there can be even more or additional liquid and/or granularcompartments in the combination of elements.

As illustrated in FIG. 7, there is an exploded view of the format ofFIG. 13 which shows the different compartments and their componentsseparated. The separation of filter element 1220 has the separate zones1224 and 1226 through which the appropriate liquids through each of thecompartments 1200 and 1202 can be forced under the pressure ofmicrowaves. This system could be used as a device for brewing alcoholicbeverages such as beers or the like. For instance, the component 1204can be liquid and the component 1206 can be a suitable extract. Thegranulated material 1208 or 1210 can be a suitable yeast or fungus tofacilitate brewing or formulating alcoholic or other fermented product.

A separate container or cup can be provided for receiving the contentsfrom the microwave oven. The separate cup can be provided for receivingthe outflow from the filter elements 1122 or 1214 or 1216 as required.In this form, therefore, the configuration would be where the components1100, 1200 and 1202 are placed on top of a receiving container.

In FIG. 14 there is illustrated a system for making products such asdesserts. There is provided a device which has at least two cells, afirst cell 1300 containing a solid-type component 1302 and a second cell1304 containing a fluid 1306. Between the cells 1300 and 1304 there isseparation membrane 1308 which can be provided with zones of differentthickness. As illustrated, there are thinner zones 1310 and thickerareas 1312. The thinner areas 1310 can be punctured when liquid 1306under the action of microwaves is caused to expand from the cell 1304and into the cell 1300

In the cell 1300 the liquid would mix with the solid 1302, and asuitable dessert can be made in this fashion. The material 1314 formaking one of the walls of the cell 1300 and the material 1316 formaking the wall of the cell 1304 can be of a nature that bonds and bindswith the material 1308 around the perimeter.

The materials 1308, 1314 and 1316 thus form laminate parts which can beeffectively bound or bonded together around a periphery thereby formingwithin the periphery, the cells 1300 and 1304. As may be required, evenmore cells can be provided, and, for this purpose, different zones anddifferent materials can be provided to make different compartments whichcan interconnect with compartments 1300 and 1304. Thereby, there couldbe three, four or five cells as required.

The separation material 1308, with areas of weakness 1310, can beprovided between the different cells. Different amounts of weakness canbe provided such that different amounts of fluid can pass from oneliquid cell to the cell containing the solid material 1302. The mixingcan be effected at an appropriate stage under the microwave action.Thus, fluid from cell 1304 could enter cell 1300 at a different time tofluid from a different cell entering the cell 1300. In this manner,different effects on the cooking can be provided.

As may be necessary, an escape valve can be provided to the outer wallof cell 1300 such that if there is excess pressure built up in the cell1300 under the cause of the microwave action, a portion of the wall ofcell 1300 can be separated. Thus, an area of weakness for the valve canbe provided in the material of 1314 for that purpose.

As illustrated in the central portion of FIG. 15, there is provided asolid food member. Contained within that solid member 1302, andcontained within that relatively solid member, there is an additional1314 which contains a component 1316 centrally located within therelatively solid member 1302. A liquid 1318 can be contained in aseparate cell around the solid component 1316. Under pressure of themicrowaves, this cell can be subject to breakage. The component 1316 inthe central cell can then mix with the relatively solid material 1302.The walls forming the cell around 1316 can be made of a material whichis edible. This configuration can be provided for making a freshmozzarella cheese or other cheese.

In the configuration on the left hand side of FIG. 15, there is shown aformat for making a dessert of a different shape or form. The relativelysolid material 1302 can be of a different consistency to that shown inthe configuration on the center and right hand side of FIG. 15. For useafter the fluid has passed from the cell 2304 to mix with the relativelysolid material, one or more of the films 1314 or 1316 or 1308 can beremoved so that an edible product is provided in a suitably palatablemanner.

The characteristic of this food preparation system is one wherebymultiple cells are provided with several components which mix or areforced together under the action of microwaves, and thus complete thecooking and/or preparation process of a final edible product.

In FIG. 16 there is shown a configuration where a vegetable in thenature of broccoli 1400 is contained in a first cell 1402 within asecond cell 1404 which contains water 1406. The wall of the cell 1402containing the broccoli is formed by the wall members 1408 and 1410which are laminated together with the wall members 1412 and 1414 formingthe outer barriers of the cell.

A valve 1416 can be provided in the outer periphery of the wall 1412 sothat if there is unnecessary build up of pressure under the action ofmicrowaves, steam or water can escape from an area of weakness 1416. Thevalve breakage points can react to different temperatures. Thus, forsome products, the valve may break at 60° C., and, in other instances,the valve may break at 80° C. A valve can also be placed for the innercell 1402, namely on the wall 1408 or 1410. The valve 1416 can belocated below, above or over the location of food 1400. The valve 1416is required in all of the configuration of FIGS. 15, 16 and 17. Morethan one valve 1416 can be provided at different locations about thefood. Each valve can be operated at different temperatures. When thevalve breaks, liquid moves from one chamber to another, and air can goto another chamber.

In this matter, broccoli or other vegetables 1400 can be suitably cookedto the requisite degree with a requisite amount of water applied at thecorrect time so as to provide a suitable and tasty vegetable and fruit.The wall 12402 provides areas of weakness so that the requisite amountof fluid or water can penetrate the vegetable as necessary so as toprevent overcooking. One or more of the materials 1404, 1408 and 1410can be removed prior to consumption of the vegetable.

In FIG. 17 there is shown a configuration for making other products. Thecomponent 1500 could be in the form of a dehydrated prefabricated foodcontained in the first cell 1502. Around that cell there is a secondcell 1504 which is formed by a wall 1506 having zones of weakness 1508.This wall 1506 can provide a valve effect. The weakness areas 1508 canbreak when the pressure caused by the microwaves on the expanding fluidsexceed the break pressure of the areas of weakness.

The third cell 1510, which contains liquid 1512, is formed by the outerwalls 1514 and 1516 as indicated. The walls 1514 and 1516 and the wall1508 as formed by each of the components 1508 a and 1508 b are bondedtogether in laminated fashion around the periphery.

As illustrated in the central portion of FIG. 17, there are differentcomponents which can be combined to make the food product. In a centralzone there can be provided, for instance, a first product such as acomponent 1600 contained in a cell 1612. Second cell 1614 can beprovided in which there is a first fluid or other component. Anothercell 1616 can provide another solid component such as cheese. A fourthcell 1618 can be provided around that cell. In the cell 1618 there canbe a different form of liquid or other component. A further cell 1620 isconstituted for containing water or other suitable fluid. The wall 1622can provide a suitable valve effect as described with regard to theconfiguration on the right hand side of FIG. 17 and wall 1506.

In the configuration shown on the left hand side of FIG. 17 there is asituation which is a repeat configuration of that shown in the centralportion although the components 1700 may be a different foodconfiguration than that in component 1600. Likewise, the wall 1722 mayhave different filtering or valve characteristics relative to the wallor valve characteristics 1622. Likewise, the fluid 1720 may be differentto the fluid 1620, and the food component 1716 can be different to thatillustrated in 1616.

The configuration as illustrated in FIGS. 15 and 17, while they showthree different products in a series, can in fact be three separateitems each having different configurations and components for cooking.

The invention can be used to prepare multiple different kinds of foods,special foods and dietary foods as may be necessary.

Many other forms of the invention exist, each differing from the otherin matters of detail only. For instance, the components making thedifferent cells can be disposable to different degrees and formed ofedible materials as necessary. One or more of the components being mixedcan be disposable and removable from the edible component after theeffect of the microwaves on the preparation of cooking of the product.One or more valves can be provided to the walls of the cells, anddifferent characteristics can be provided to permit mixing and blendingof the different components from the cells at different times. Suitablepre-treatment of the products can be provided to avoid deteriorationprior to processing in a microwave, and as such, the shelf life of theproducts can be enhanced. The food may include meat or fish products.The products may be partly or wholly frozen prior to microwaving orpartly or wholly precooked, seasoned or unseasoned. As may be necessary,one or more the components can in fact be reusable. For instance, wherethe component is for serving purposes—in the nature of a plate ordrinking cup. Different seals can be provided to the cells to preventpremature mixing of the components. Moreover, different profiles of thefruit products and their containers can be provided. Where partiallypre-prepared components are used, the container shape can be formed soas to help mold the final shape of the product and render it into ashape which is attractive and desirable for a consumer. Differentconnections between different components can be provided.

Some of these beverages may or may not include milk or dairy containingproducts. In other forms, the device can be used for injecting theessences of flavors into liquids in the form of flavored yogurts,flavored fruit juices, hot chocolate and similar products.

In the modern busy world it is desirable to provide devices that can besold to a consumer for the quick preparation of hot beverages. Devicesare known for making pots of coffee through a conventional electricelement, but these are either slow or cumbersome for use by theconsumer. Other devices are known for making espresso on a stovetop, andonce again these are not of a consumer-friendly nature, such that theycan be easily disposed of after use.

The device of the present invention can be used for providing hot drinksand/or drinks of different temperatures after their preparation in amicrowave oven.

This invention also relates to a device system and method for use in andwith a microwave oven for preparing and cooking digestible products suchas beverages and foods. In particular, the invention is also concernedwith a device for preparing beverages such as different coffee, coffeecombinations, tea and tea combinations. Two or more components for thefood or beverage can be combined to provide a desirable food orbeverage. In other forms, the device can be used for adding essences offlavors into liquids, which can include milk products, fruit juices orthe like. Moreover, the device can be used for brewing and fermentingpurposes and for preparing and cooking solid food products and desserts.

It is desirable to provide a device as to a method which consumers canuse for quick preparation of beverages and digestible foods which caninclude complete or other meals. A microwave oven is a useful device forfacilitating quick preparation and/or cooking of food, and the inventionuses the characteristics of a microwave oven to prepare desirable hotbeverages, drinks, foods, desserts and other nutritional products.

In FIGS. 18A, 18B and 19 there is a different configuration relative toFIGS. 10A, 10B and 11. The center part where the essence is received hasa hollow chamber 1082 formed as a ring around the central portion. Thering type donut 1082 can be found as one or more components. It can betubular in cross-section mode out of mesh, formed metal or plasticmaterial. It can facilitate liquid, such as milk, being caused to foamwhen under pressure and passing through the mesh, which is effectively adouble mesh, namely one on the top portion and the other portion of thedonut. Instead of tubular cross-section, other flat or straight orelliptical cross-sections can work.

In some cases, the container can be provided with or without liquid, orwith or without the food or drink essence. Also, when the liquid isprovided, it can be supplied in one portion, for instance, the bottomportion of the device, and when used in the microwave, it can bereversed such that the liquid is on the top. Under the action of themicrowave heating the liquid flows down through the essence into the cupor tray below.

In other variations, for instance, in FIG. 12 or FIG. 13, the containers1112, 1200 and 1202 may be provided at the top with separable lids forone or more of the containers, which can be screwed or pop-snapped tothe sides of the walls of the containers. This permits liquid to beadded. The same applies to other embodiments, for instance, in allfigures for liquid containers.

FIGS. 20, 20A and 20B show a configuration where the uppermost containerhas a removable base or plate. The base component 3000 is screw threadedat zones 140 to the wall 150 and also the central wall or passage 3001.As such, this is removable as required.

In FIG. 21 the base 3000 is shown screw threaded to the walls 150. Thereare no central walls in this configuration. A central portion 3002 hasan internal thread 3003 which mates with a male thread 3004 on the baseof the top component or container. The lip 1058 is an internal lip whichmates with a sealing ring 1054 as required.

In the configuration shown in FIG. 22A, there is a spout arrangement4000 which is formed in the outlet to a cover member 4001 which providesan internal threaded portion 4002 to mate with a male threaded portion4003. The threaded portion 4003 is at the top or leading end of a glassor plastic container 4004. A separate filter element 4005 sits betweenthe cover element 4001 and a gasket 4006 which is supported on a traylike element 4007 which is itself supported on a gasket 4008. Coffee ortea is contained in the bag 4010. The spout 4000 can be constructed toswivel or pivot about a pivot 4011 in any desirable manner between aposition contained within the circumference 4012 of the device as shownin FIG. 22B or the extended position as shown in FIGS. 22 and 22A. Asuitable housing 4013 is provided to receive the spout 4010. The pivot4011 can have a suitable interlocking feature, so that when in theclosed position as shown in FIG. 22B, no fluid can be expelled. In theopen position, fluid can be expelled. In the open position as shown inFIGS. 22 and 22A, there can be a relatively uniform unimpeded flow fromthe contents of the container 4004 through the spout exit 4000. Thefilter 4005 sits about the coffee bag 4010 which is located above afilter 4014 which is formed as a partial cover to a funnel container4015 which is offset from and sits to one side in the container 4004. Aninlet 4016 is provided to the funnel so that fluid from the container4004 can pass into the front as required.

In FIGS. 23 and 23A there is shown a different configuration for using afunnel device in a container. There is a cover member 5000 which has anoutlet spout 5001 which is suitable pivoted between an inward positionand an external position. It is shown in the external position in FIG.23. The cover member has an internal female threaded portion 5002 and anouter female threaded portion 5003. There is an outside container 5004which can be of glass or plastic and has a male threaded portion 5005for engaging the female threaded portion 5003. There is also an internalcontainer element 5006 which is substantially triconically shaped andwhich has at its leading edge a male threaded portion 5007 for engagingthe female portion 5002. Within the conical element 5006 there is afunnel portion 5008 which has a store like element 5009 which isdirected towards the base 5010 of the container 5006. At the top of thefunnel element 5008, there is a filter tray 5011 which has a lip or rim5012 for receiving a coffee bag 5013. Above the coffee bag 5013 there isa ring-like gasket element 5014 and above the ring-like gasket elementthere is a filter 5015 which has a circular rim or ridge 5016 whichcooperates between the gasket 5014 and the base 5017 of the cover memberso as to effect sealing of the configuration. There is also a ringfilter mesh with the formation 5018 which fits into the aperture zone5019 through which a liquid such as milk can be forced under pressure soas to create a firming effect when it enters the outlet tube of thespout 5001. The configuration of this embodiment is useful to makeproducts such as cappuccino and cafe lane. In this manner, the cover ortop 5000 can be provided with one or more outlet spouts 5001 and 5021which pivot respectively about swivel elements 5022 and 5023. As shownin FIG. 23B the spouts 5001 and 5021 are housed within the perimeter ofthe cover member 5000. In some cases only one of the spouts may be used.For instance, where spout 5001 is used the device can be used to makeespresso. Where both spouts 5001 and 5021 are used a combinationbeverage can be provided. The combination being the combination of twodifferent fluids in the respective containers 5004 and 5006. The filter5019 acts as a tray for the packet 5013.

As indicated in the example of FIGS. 22 and 23, the device can be usedwith a separate container or cup to receive the beverage which is heatedup in the containers.

In FIG. 24, there is shown a system whereby there is a container body6004 with a side wall and a base 6027. In the base 6027 there is anelement 6021 which is movable between a closed position as shown in thesymbol position of FIG. 24 and an opened position as shown in the view6024 a. A representation of line 6020 is the representation of themovement of the base 6027 between the position as shown, namely in theopen position 6021 a and in the closed position 6021.

There is also a second element 6028 which has a base 6029 and an upwardspout 6028. The mouth 6026 of the spout 6028 interacts with the valve6021 which can move between the closed position 6021 and 6021 a asillustrated. The base 6029 includes a threaded male portion 6030 whichengages with a female threaded portion 6031 which is at the one end ofthe container 6004. There is also a closure member 6032 which has athreaded portion 6033 for engaging with the male thread 6030. Betweenthe end 6034 of the container 6004 and the thread 6033 there is a gasket6014. In the cavity 6019 that is formed between 6029 and the base 6030there is located a coffee bag 6081 which is mounted between two filterelements 6035 and 6036. The base 6030 has an outlet spout 6037.

Water is located in the cavity 6038 and the valve 6021 is in the downposition to act as a closure as indicated in FIG. 24. Pressure thatbuilds up from the boiling water or steam in the cavity 6038 is forcedbetween the wall 6039 and the wall 6028 as indicated by arrow 6040. Whenthe pressure is sufficient, it causes the valve 6021 to open to position6021 a as indicated. The water and steam is then forced down the cavity6041 as indicated by arrow 6042. It passes through the filter 6036, thefilter bag 6081 included in the coffee and the final filter 6035 andthen exits as a coffee essence through a funnel 6037 into a cup whichcan be separate or part of the unit. There are wave like formations 6043at the base of the plate 6030. This permits excessive steam or the liketo pass from the cup below plate 6030 and underneath the plate 6030without causing undo pressure to build up.

Thus, in FIGS. 24 and 24A there is shown a system where element 6021acts as a pressure relief valve which can flip up and down as indicated.This operates only when sufficient pressure is built up in the container6038. There is sufficient space 6044 provided below the wall 6039 andthe floor 6029 so that water can be left in the system to create steamand pressure up the shaft formed in the container.

The device can be used not only for making a coffee product, but alsoother liquid products, for instance alcohol. The system can also be usedwhere there are multiple chambers, such as a coffee product in thenature of cappuccino. There could be a second chamber for containingmilk. The essence of the arrangement of FIG. 24 is an elongated path forbuilding up steam pressure as indicated.

In FIGS. 25, 25A and 25B there is shown an alternative arrangement forincreasing the fluid path. In these figures, the spout 6028 has at itstop a curved portion 6045 which connects with the downwardly directedspout 6046 which has a mouth 6047 spaced above the plate 6029. Thatspacing is sufficient to build up the head of steam that may benecessary to push the liquid up the spout 6046 as indicated by arrow6048 and down the spout 6028 as indicated by arrow 6049. The head ofwater or steam would be left in the container body 6038 as necessary.Similarly, there is the space 6050 which is below the plate 6029 andabove the filter 6019. That chronicle space is also useful to facilitatethe effective flow of liquid through the filter and coffee system.Similarly, there is a space 6051 below the filter 6035 and above thefunnel 6037 for similar effect. The arrangement of the elongated tube6028 and 6046 for extending the fluid path to build up the pressure ofthe steam as illustrated is likewise useful to provide an effective endproduct.

In the configurations shown., for instance in FIGS. 24-25B, therelationships of the components is such that the fluid is located on thetop and there is a downward movement partly under gravity of the boiledliquid and/or steam to make the beverage in a container located belowthe device. Thus, it is the downward movement of the fluid thatfacilitates an improved product.

The device can be reusable several times or intended for single useoperation.

In different aspects of the invention, the characteristics and/orcontents of the food component may need to be changed to facilitatemicrowave processing and/or cooking. Thus, coffee can be prepared inespresso and/or cappuccino form in a microwave by having the coffeegranules and/or beans preprocessed so that the extract and/or flavor canbe obtained at temperatures in the range of 100° C. to 130° C. Normally,such effect is obtained at about 170° C. or more, which is not a normaltemperature for conventional microwave operation. Normal espressoproducts are formed at about 170° C.

In any one or more of the embodiments one or more of the components canbe made of a material which can expand or shrink under the action ofheat. While having this relationship, a component which normallycontains water or any other liquid at a normal temperature can beforced, for instance, to contract as heat is generated. This causes thereservoir to increase under pressure and for fluid to be ejected fromthat reservoir. In this sense, the material acts as a system for helpingto pump fluid from the reservoir into a different chamber. Differentkinds of materials are known which can act in this fashion. The materialcan have a memory type characteristic, which can cause this movement ofone or more walls of the material as required under the action of themicrowaves and/or heat generated by the microwaves. In some cases, oneor more of the elements can be made of laminates of material havingdifferent reactive characteristics under heat or different temperaturesbased on the different end products. For instance, under the examplesshown in FIGS. 24-25, the walls of the container 6004 could be of thematerial such that the material contracts to thereby reduce the volumeof the cavity 6038, and thereby force fluid under the pumping actioncaused by decrease volume of the cavity through the different channelsand elements. The water and/or steam can pass through the filter 6036,filter bag 6081 and final filter 6035 to exit into a cup or separateunit associated with the device.

The material of one or more compartment can shrink causing an increasedpressure in that compartment. In an adjacent compartment, the pressurewill decrease.

Alternatively and/or additionally, the material of another compartmentmay expand causing the compartment to expand. An adjacent compartmentwill then be subject to increased pressure since its relative sizedecreases. The first compartment is subject to lesser pressure since itsrelative size increases.

For instance, in FIG. 1 in one situation the walls 10 shrink or contractto some degree to increase the pressure in compartment 20. Also, thecompartment 18 can have walls which contract or may increase thepressure therein. Relatively, however, 20 needs to contract more than 18to have an overall increase in pressure in both compartments.

In another case, for instance in FIG. 8, in compartment 1032 the wallsexpand. This causes a pressure differential whereby the pressure fromthe compartment defined by walls 1020 forces fluid 1034 into thecompartment 1032 under the increased pressure differential.

These same characteristics may be applicable also to other embodimentsof the invention, for instance those illustrated in FIGS. 15-17 relatingto the microprocessing through food which is contained in one or morecontainers as illustrated and described with regard to these figures.

In the embodiments, particularly those of FIGS. 12-17, shrinking orcontracting of one or more of the components acts as a pump to forcefluid from one component to another due to the reduced size of thecomponent and/or the increased size of an adjacent component. In othersituations, the expansion of one compartment relative to the othercauses the same pumping effect. Because the fluid is forced under thisincreased pressure from one component to another, there is also the timechange for food preparation. In other words, since the device acts inpart as a pressure cooker-type arrangement, less time can be used toprepare the consumable product. The appropriate determination ofpressure and time will be related to the particular food or liquidproduct being prepared. In this regard, the food or liquid product canhave different degrees of solidity, different constituentcharacteristics, for instance, a milk product, a water containingproduct, a gelatin containing product or the like.

In FIGS. 26A and 26B there are shown constructions similar to thatillustrated in FIG. 12. In the illustration of FIGS. 26A and 26B thewalls 1112 of the compartment are relatively solid and selectivelyopaque so the contents within the wall is not visible to the user.Inside of the wall 1112 there is a collapsible wall 11 12 a whichcontains the contents of liquid which are subject to reaction under theeffect of the microwaves. In this manner, when the microwave causes thewalls 11 12 a to collapse as liquid is expelled from the container. Thisis not visible or alternatively does not affect the outer wall 1112which remains relatively solid and unchanged. The wall 1112 in certaincircumstances can be made transparent or semi-transparent if desired.

In FIG. 27 there is a similar arrangement where the walls 1200 and 1202are relatively solid, and contained respectively within each of thosecompartments is a collapsible wall 1200 a and 1202 a which is subject tothe reaction of microwaves. The powdered material 1210 a forms arelatively larger size than that shown in the embodiment of FIG. 13 item1210. It is also relatively larger than the compartment 1212 shown inFIGS. 13 and 27. In this manner, there is more granular material incompartment 1210 a and accordingly the size of the compartments 1206 and1204 in FIG. 27 are relatively different. The partition 1222 a forcompartment 1204 is placed higher up and more removed from the element1214 to accommodate this change in size. Different amounts of fluid arecontained in compartments 1204 and 1206. Different combinations ofrelative compartment size for fluid, powders, and granular materials arepossible. The compartments 1210 a and 1212 can be sealed with anappropriate cover at their outlets.

As illustrated in FIG. 28 there is a configuration with the collapsiblewalls 1200 a and 1202 a, each of those walls respectively being coveredby the more solid constructions 1200 and 1202. The filtering withseparation element includes a pivotable wing component 1222 a which ismovable as indicated by arrow 1222 b. Such wings can be provided on bothsides of the separation element, as is shown in FIG. 26A. These wingscan be used to lock the various elements together.

In FIGS. 29a and 29 b the wall 1020 a is relatively solid and notsubject to the reaction of microwaves. Wall 1020 is collapsible underthe action of microwaves. Wall 1020 a may be opaque, transparent, partlytransparent or selectively may have a window in the wall so that thecontents inside, namely the wall 1020 can be seen through wall 1020 a.

The filtering mechanism 1042 a is of a relatively smaller diameter thanthe comparative filtering mechanism 1042 as shown in FIG. 8a and FIG.8b. Suitable radial elements 1024 b are directed to support thefiltering element 1042 a from the circumferential outside towards thecentral location or around the periphery of the filtering element 1042 aand to provide locking together of the various components.

FIG. 30 illustrates a technique for treating different elements underthe action of microwaves where there is a further casing 1300 a providedabout the cell 1300 within which there is a further container for thefood. The wall 1300 a may be opaque, transparent, semitransparent or mayhave a suitable window. Ideally the wall 1300 a does not collapse underthe action of microwaves and as such when the food is being processed inthe microwave it is not visible to the naked eye until the wall andor/casing 1300 a is removed. In FIG. 31 there is shown a similar wall1406 a which surrounds the wall 1406. This wall 1406 a may have similarcharacteristics to that illustrated for wall 1 300 a in FIG. 30. In FIG.32 there is a wall 151 6 a which has similar characteristics as thewalls 1406 a and 1 300 a.

In FIGS. 33, 34 and 35 there is shown a configuration where there is asolid wall 1112 and a collapsible wall 1112 a. Between these walls thereare a series of granules, pellets or cells 1112 b. These expandableelements react to microwaves. The configuration is shown in FIG. 34which shows the cells 1 112 b in the unexpanded form and the walls 11 12a and 1112 in their normal state prior to subjection of microwaves.Fluid is contained in the cavity 1102. Under microwave action, thepellets 11 12 b expand as shown in FIG. 33 and expand further as shownin FIG. 35. In the substantially fully expanded position the wall 1 112a is collapsed to be substantially adjacent to the separation filter1104 or the base 1114 of the container. This acts to force fluid fromthe container portion 1102 through the components 1108 and 1120 to acontainer or reservoir on the opposite side.

As shown in FIGS. 36 and 37 there is a configuration which similarlyuses expandable pellets or cells 1300 b. There is the collapsible wall1300 c and the pellets 1300 b are disposed between that wall and anouter wall 1 300 a.

As shown in FIG. 37 the cells 1300 b are expanded and the wall 1300 chas collapsed to be adjacent the division and closer to the vegetable,meat or other food component within the walls 1300.

The cells 11 12 b and 1 300 b can be made of any suitable expandablematerial which is capable of expanding under heat. As such, any suitableresin, gaseous liquid or other cell material can be used. Examples ofsuch materials can be polystyrene, polypropylene type, or other plasticmaterials. The nature of the materials is that they do not adverselyimpact food or liquids or other consumable products. The materials canbe formed so as to gradually expand. Thus there can be a delayedreaction so that after the liquid and/or food in other compartments isheated, the expansion of the cells takes place to force heated liquid orfluid through a filter or partition. Likewise there can be a progressionin the expansion so that the space filled by the cells gradually fillsup and the liquid is gradually forced through the partition. Theinvention is to be determined solely by the following claims.

The invention is to be determined by the following claims

I claim:
 1. A disposable device for use in a microwave oven for making acoffee-based espresso-like beverage comprising: multiple fluidcontaining compartments, the compartments being formed of a materialhaving a substantially non-deleterious reaction to microwave action; aconsumable coffee beverage product including at least two componentswhich are separated in the compartments prior to being subjected tomicrowave action, one component, being water, in a first compartment,and the second component being coffee granules; a divider for keepingthe components separate prior to microwave action, wherein the divideris a filter, and wherein the filter has a predetermined series ofapertures; wherein the effect of microwave action on the water componentacts to break the divider separating the components and causes the watercomponent to be forced through the coffee granules under pressure causedby the effect of the microwaves on the water and to extract, underpressure caused by the microwaves, essence and flavor from the coffeegranules to a desired degree, and thereby provide a desired consumableespresso-like based coffee beverage in a second compartment normallyempty prior to microwave action; wherein the material forming one ormore compartments shrinks or increases in size under heat caused by themicrowave relative to an adjacent compartment, thereby causing arelative increase in pressure in one compartment related to thatmaterial, thereby to increase the pressure by which water is forcedunder microwave action through the granules into the compartment tocontain the beverage after microwave action; and a substantiallynon-shrinkable and selectively at least partly opaque member about atleast the one component.
 2. A device as claimed in claim 1 whereinanother compartment is for containing a dry coffee product contained ina filtering medium.
 3. A device as claimed in claim 1 wherein thedivider is an element for location between compartments, and thecompartments are cylindrical elements located with open ends in an endto end relationship with a divider element between them and a drycomponent being contained in the divider element.
 4. A device as claimedin claim 1 wherein, prior to microwaving, the compartments are sealedwith the ingredient components separated, the compartments beingseparable after microwaving, and the second of the compartments is adelivery means for the coffee beverage product to the consumer.
 5. Adevice as claimed in claim 1 wherein one of the multiple compartments isfor containing a dairy product, the dairy product selectively being in aliquidized form, and the dairy product is selectively a non-fat milk orother milk product suitably processed so as not to deteriorate in theenvironment.
 6. A device as claimed in claim 1 wherein the componentsinclude a milk product in another compartment, and whereby undermicrowaving the components blend to make cappuccino or other dairycontaining espresso-based coffee product.
 7. A device as claimed inclaim 1 wherein one component of the device includes a cup.
 8. A deviceas claimed in claim 1 wherein one of the compartments is a drinking cup,the drinking cup being a separate element for cooperating with at leastone of the other compartments, thereby permitting the making the hotbeverage in the drinking cup.
 9. A device as claimed in claim 1 whereinat least one of the compartments is made selectively of plastic, paper,pressboard, cardboard or laminated components.
 10. A device as claimedin claim 1 wherein there is a space between the non-shrinkable memberand a selectively partly-opaque non-shrinkable member and wherein thespace contains expandable cells, elements or components, the expansionof such cells, elements or components being such as to increase thespace between the shrinkable member and the non-shrinkable member andthereby force liquid or other fluids from the one component through thedivider, the expansion being affected under the action of microwaves.11. A disposable device for use in a microwave oven for making acoffee-based espresso-like product comprising: multiple fluid containingcompartments, the compartments being formed of a material having asubstantially non-deleterious microwave action; a consumable coffeebeverage product including at least two components which are separatedin the compartments prior to being subjected to microwave action; adivider for keeping the components separate prior to microwave actionthe divider is an element for location between compartments, and thecompartments are cylindrical elements located with open ends in an endto end relationship with a divider element between them and a drycomponent being contained in the divider element; wherein the effect ofmicrowave action on the water component acts to break the dividerseparating the components and causes the water component to be forcedthrough the coffee granules under pressure caused by the effect of themicrowaves on the water and to extract, under pressure caused by themicrowaves, essence and flavor from the coffee granules to a desireddegree, and thereby provide a desired consumable espresso-like basedcoffee beverage in a second compartment normally empty prior tomicrowave action; wherein one of the compartments is for containingwater prior to microwaving, another compartment is for containing a drycoffee product contained in a filtering medium, and a third compartmentis for receiving a coffee liquid product after microwaving, the liquidhaving passed from the first compartment, through the filtering mediumand into the third compartment; wherein another compartment is forcontaining a dairy product to be added to the coffee product under steampressure caused by microwaves thereby to provide a coffee-basedespresso-like beverage containing steamed milk; wherein the materialforming one or more compartments shrinks or increases in size under heatcaused by the microwave relative to an adjacent compartment, therebycausing a relative increase in pressure in one compartment related tothat material, thereby to increase the pressure by which water is forcedunder microwave action through the granules into the compartment tocontain the beverage after microwave action, and a substantiallynon-shrinkable and selectively at least partly opaque member about atleast the one component.
 12. A device as claimed in claim 11 whereinthere is a space between the non-shrinkable member and a selectivelypartly-opaque non-shrinkable member and wherein the space containsexpandable cells, elements or components, the expansion of such cells,elements or components being such as to increase the space between theshrinkable member and the nonshrinkable member and thereby force liquidor other fluids from the one component through the divider, theexpansion being affected under the action of microwaves.
 13. A devicefor use in a microwave oven for making an essence or flavored beveragecomprising: a water containing compartment, the compartment being formedof a material having a substantially non-deleterious reaction tomicrowave action, one component, being water, contained in the watercontaining compartment, and a second component, being a powder orgranules; a consumable beverage product including at least twocomponents which are separated prior to being subjected to microwaveaction; a divider for the compartment for keeping the componentsseparate prior to microwave action; wherein the effect of microwaveaction on the water component acts to break the divider separating thecomponents and causes the components to mix to a desired degree, andthereby provide a desired consumable beverage, the water being treatedunder microwaves, thereby causing an increased pressure to break thedivider of the compartment and the heated water to be urged underpressure through the powder or granules, and thereby making theconsumable beverage; wherein the material forming one or morecompartments shrinks or increases in size under heat caused by themicrowave relative to an adjacent compartment, thereby causing arelative increase in pressure in one compartment related to thatmaterial, thereby to increase the pressure by which water is forcedunder microwave action through the granules into the compartment tocontain the beverage after microwave action; and a substantiallynon-shrinkable and selectively at least partly opaque member about atleast the one component.
 14. A device as claimed in claim 13 wherein thedivider is a filter, and wherein the filter has a predetermined seriesof apertures.
 15. A device as claimed in claim 13 including multiplecompartments and one of the multiple compartments being for containing adry coffee product.
 16. A device as claimed in claim 13 wherein, priorto microwaving, the compartments are sealed with the ingredientcomponents separated, the compartments being separable aftermicrowaving, and one of the compartments being a delivery means for thebeverage product to the consumer.
 17. A device as claimed in claim 13wherein there are multiple compartments, and wherein one compartment isfor containing water, and one of the multiple compartments is forcontaining a dairy product, and another of the multiple compartments isfor containing a dry coffee product.
 18. A device as claimed in claim 13wherein the granules or powder is selectively coffee, tea, soup,flavoring, vegetable or fruit concentrate.
 19. A device as claimed inclaim 13 wherein the compartment includes multiple components andwherein one component of the device includes a cup which is optionallyfitted to form as part of the integral device when used in the microwaveoven.
 20. A device for use in a microwave oven comprising: multiplefluid containing compartments, the compartments being formed of amaterial having a substantially non-deleterious reaction to microwaveaction, and wherein one of the components is water; a consumablebeverage product including at least two components which are separatedin the compartments prior to being subjected to microwave action; adivider for keeping the components separate prior to microwave action;and wherein the effect of microwave action on water the component actsto break the divider separating the components and causes the componentsto mix to a desired degree, and thereby provides a desired consumablebeverage, the water being treated under microwaves, thereby causing anincreased pressure to break the divider of the compartment and theheated water to be urged under pressure through the powder or granules,and thereby making the consumable beverage; wherein the material formingone or more compartments shrinks or increases in size under heat causedby the microwave relative to an adjacent compartment, thereby causing arelative increase in pressure in one compartment related to thatmaterial, thereby to increase the pressure by which water is forcedunder microwave action through the granules into the compartment tocontain the beverage after microwave action; and a substantiallynon-shrinkable and selectively at least partly opaque member about atleast the one component.
 21. A device for use in a microwave oven formaking a food product comprising: multiple fluid containingcompartments, the compartments being formed of a material having asubstantially non-deleterious reaction to microwave action; a consumablefood product including at least two components which are separated inthe compartments prior to being subjected to microwave action, onecomponent, being water, in a first compartment, and the second componentbeing food product; a divider for keeping the components separate priorto microwave action, wherein the divider is a filter, and wherein thefilter has a predetermined series of apertures; wherein the effect ofmicrowave action on the water component acts to break the dividerseparating the components and causes the water component to be forcedthrough the food product under pressure caused by the effect of themicrowaves on the water and to extract, under pressure caused by themicrowaves, essence and flavor from the food product to a desireddegree, and thereby provide a desired consumable food; wherein thematerial forming one or more compartments shrinks or increases in sizeunder heat caused by the microwave relative to an adjacent compartment,thereby causing a relative increase in pressure in one compartmentrelated to that material, thereby to increase the pressure by whichwater is forced under microwave action through the food product; and asubstantially non-shrinkable and selectively at least partly opaquemember about at least the one component.
 22. A device as claimed inclaim 21 wherein another compartment is for containing a dry product.23. A device as claimed in claim 21 wherein, prior to microwaving, thecompartments are sealed with the ingredient components separated, thecompartments being separable after microwaving, and the second of thecompartments is a delivery means for the food product to the consumer.24. A device as claimed in claim 21 wherein one of the multiplecompartments is for containing a dairy product, and the dairy product isselectively in a liquidized form, the dairy product is selectively anon-fat milk or other milk product suitably processed so as not todeteriorate in the environment.